Thinking about starting a blog for your hotel? It could be a game-changer in how you market your place. Surprisingly, many hotels haven’t taken the plunge into blogging. Instead, they rely on paid ads and teaming up with influencers, overlooking the potential of telling their own story through blog posts.
But here’s the real talk – running a successful hotel blog takes time and effort. It’s not a quick fix, and it might not be the perfect fit for every hotel, depending on your team and your audience.
Still, there’s a good case for having a blog on your hotel’s website. Let’s talk about why starting a hotel blog is a smart move and when it might not be the best fit for your place. It’s a journey worth considering, with the potential to give your hotel’s online presence a whole new vibe.
Understanding the Basics of Hotel Blogging
If you’re a hotelier looking to get savvy with your online marketing, mastering the art of hotel blogging can be a game changer. It’s not just about putting pen to paper—or fingers to keyboard—but understanding how this digital powerhouse can ramp up your direct bookings and sprinkle some SEO magic on your search engine rankings.
What is a Hotel Blog?
A hotel blog serves as an invaluable piece of real estate within your website where stories come alive, experiences are shared, and local insights become travel inspiration for readers far and wide. When we talk about the importance of hotel blogging, we’re spotlighting its role in connecting with guests beyond just room features or rates; it’s creating that compelling narrative that turns lookers into bookers.
Blogging breathes life into what might otherwise be static pages on your site. Imagine being able to communicate directly with travelers searching for their next adventure—this is where benefits like building brand awareness and painting vivid pictures of guest experiences take center stage. Think less ‘standard double room’ descriptions and more ‘wake up to breathtaking mountain views after enjoying our chef’s signature breakfast.’
What are the Benefits of Having a Blog for Your Hotel?
Running a blog for your hotel can offer a range of benefits that contribute to the overall success and visibility of your establishment. Here are some key advantages:
- Showcasing Personality and Storytelling:
A blog allows you to share the unique stories, experiences, and personalities that make your hotel special. It’s a platform to go beyond the traditional marketing pitch and connect with potential guests on a personal level.
- Improving Search Engine Visibility:
Regularly updating your blog with relevant and quality content improves your website’s search engine optimization (SEO). This, in turn, enhances your hotel’s visibility on search engine results pages, making it easier for potential guests to find you.
- Building a Community:
A blog provides a space for interaction. Readers can leave comments, share their thoughts, and ask questions. Engaging with your audience builds a sense of community and loyalty around your brand.
- Sharing Expertise:
Through insightful blog posts, you can position your hotel as an authority in the hospitality industry. Offering travel tips, local insights, and industry knowledge builds trust with your audience.
- Increasing Direct Bookings:
A blog provides opportunities to strategically place calls-to-action (CTAs) within your content, encouraging readers to book directly on your website. This can reduce dependency on third-party booking platforms.
- Adapting to Trends and Seasons:
Use your blog to announce and promote seasonal offers, events, and updates. This keeps your audience informed and engaged, adapting to changing trends and preferences.
- Enhancing Social Media Presence:
Blog content can be repurposed for social media, expanding your reach and driving traffic back to your website. It creates a cohesive online presence, reinforcing your brand across different platforms.
- Monitoring Guest Feedback:
Pay attention to comments and feedback on your blog. This direct interaction provides valuable insights into guest preferences and concerns, helping you continuously improve your services.
How to Create a Strong Blogging Strategy for Hotels?
Here are the main steps we recommend you take to succeed in hotel blogging:
1. Brainstorm and Analyze
Starting a successful hotel blogging journey requires a well-thought-out strategy, starting with a comprehensive analysis, brainstorming sessions, and essential considerations. Here’s how you can kickstart your hotel’s blog on the right foot:
- Determine Your Target Audience
Before diving into blog creation, identify and define your target audience. Understanding your audience allows you to differentiate yourself and effectively compete, even against larger businesses.
For instance, you are a hiking enthusiast who started a small hilltop hotel. By focusing on hikers and adventurous tourists, you tailor your blog content to their specific needs, yielding remarkable results. Defining your target audience streamlines your strategy, saving both time and resources.
Not sure how to define your target market? Dive into our comprehensive guide on strategies for defining your hotel’s target audience.
- Identify What Sort of Content Other Hotels Are Publishing
Keeping a close eye on your competitors is crucial. Analyze the content your competitors are producing as you start your hotel blog. Knowing your competition, and understanding their strengths and weaknesses provides valuable insights to make your blog stand out. While it’s essential to draw inspiration, avoid blatant copying. Use your competitors’ content as a guide to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation in your own performance.
Here are some useful tips to help you in this process:
- Identify Competitors: Start by identifying direct competitors in your niche or location.
- Examine Blog Content: Regularly visit your competitors’ blogs and thoroughly examine their content.
- Analyzing Content Topics: Identify recurring topics and themes in your competitors’ blogs.
- Check Frequency and Consistency: Observe how often your competitors publish new content and if there’s a consistent schedule.
- Evaluate Engagement Metrics: Check for comments, social media shares, and overall engagement on their blog posts.
- Assess Writing Style and Tone: Analyze the writing style and tone of your competitor’s blogs to understand how they connect with their audience.
- Use Competitor Analysis Tools: Utilize tools like SEMrush, BuzzSumo, and Ahrefs to uncover keywords, backlinks, and overall SEO strategies.
- Track Social Media Activity: Monitor your competitors’ social media channels to see which blog posts they promote and how their audience responds.
- Look for Gaps and Opportunities: Identify content gaps or topics your competitors haven’t covered extensively.
- Evaluate Multimedia Usage: Note how your competitors incorporate images, videos, or infographics into their blogs for enhanced engagement.
- Assess Keyword Strategy: Analyze the keywords your competitors are targeting using tools like Google Keyword Planner and Ubersuggest.
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Subscribe to your competitors’ newsletters to stay updated on their latest blog posts and content offerings.
Competitor Blog Analysis Template
| COMPETITOR NAME | OBSERVATIONS/NOTES |
| 1. Identify Competitors | List of main competitors in your niche or location. |
| 2. Examine Blog Content | Types of content published by each competitor. |
| 3. Analyzing Content Topics | Recurring topics and themes found in competitors’ blogs. |
| 4. Check the Frequency and Consistency | Frequency of new content and if there’s a consistent schedule. |
| 5. Evaluate Engagement Metrics | Comments, social media shares, and overall engagement on blog posts. |
| 6. Assess Writing Style and Tone | Writing style and tone employed by each competitor in their blogs. |
| 7. Use Competitor Analysis Tools | Summary of insights from tools such as SEMrush, BuzzSumo, and Ahrefs. |
| 8. Track Social Media Activity | Notes on how competitors promote blog posts on social media and audience responses. |
| 9. Look for Gaps and Opportunities | Identified content gaps or topics competitors haven’t covered extensively. |
| 10. Evaluate Multimedia Usage | How competitors incorporate images, videos, or infographics into their blogs. |
| 11. Assess Keyword Strategy | Keywords targeted by each competitor, using tools like Google Keyword Planner and Ubersuggest. |
| 12. Subscribe to Newsletters | Feedback from subscribing to each competitor’s newsletter, and insights gained on their latest content. |
- List Out the Categories for Your Hotel Blog
Categorizing your blogs is a prerequisite for a well-organized content strategy. Utilize the insights gained from defining your target audience to determine the types of blogs you’ll produce. Consider the content preferences of your audience, and explore various blog types. Some options include listicle blogs, ‘how-to’ blogs, opinion pieces, guides, and interviews. While these categories offer a starting point, feel free to experiment with different approaches to keep your content engaging and diverse.
Hotel blog category examples:
- Destination Guides
- Travel Tips
- Hotel News and Updates
- Guest Experiences
- Local Events and Festivals
- Behind-the-Scenes
- Culinary Adventures
- Sustainability and Green Initiatives
- Seasonal Promotions and Packages
- Wellness and Relaxation
- Local History and Culture
- Exclusive Offers for Subscribers
- Staff Spotlights
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Pet-Friendly Travel
2. Consider Technical Aspects
When it comes to your hotel blog, the technical aspects play a crucial role in shaping the user experience. Drawing inspiration from the importance of technical elements, here’s how you can enhance the technical aspects of your hotel blog:
- Make the blog interface engaging:
First and foremost, the design of your hotel blog holds the power to shape the initial impression of new visitors. Despite the cliché advice of not judging a book by its cover, the reality is that design matters. An elegant and engaging design captivates attention and encourages visitors to delve into the substance of your blog. If crafting a compelling design isn’t within your skill set, considering the services of a professional can ensure that your blog’s visual appeal aligns seamlessly with your hotel’s brand, making that critical first impression a positive one.
- Choose the right CMS platform:
CMS, standing for ‘content management system,’ facilitates the seamless management and publication of web content. When selecting the right CMS platform, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. WordPress, known for its user-friendly interface and extensive plugin ecosystem, Joomla, offering flexibility and scalability, and Drupal, ideal for complex and customizable websites, are among the top choices. Exploring the features and user interfaces of these platforms enables an informed decision tailored to your blogging requirements.
3. When Writing
Now that the groundwork is laid with the essential preparations, it’s time to delve into the writing process for your hospitality blog. Following these steps diligently can significantly enhance your blog’s value to readers:
1. Find the Topic:
Choose blog topics directly related to the hotel industry. Hotel blogs can be valuable sources of inspiration.
Here are some tools and strategies you can use to discover compelling topics:
| Tool | Purpose |
| Google Trends | Explore the popularity of search queries over time and identify trending topics. |
| Ubersuggest | Provides keyword ideas, content suggestions, and insights into search volume for specific keywords. |
| AnswerThePublic | Visualizes search query data to understand the questions people have about a particular topic. |
| BuzzSumo | Discovers popular content in the hotel industry and identifies topics with high social media engagement. |
| SEMrush | All-in-one marketing toolkit offering keyword trends, competitor analysis, and content ideas. |
| Ahrefs Content Explorer | Helps discover popular content around a specific topic and identifies trending articles. |
| Quora | Platform for exploring common queries and concerns related to hotels, travel, and destinations. |
| Visual search engine providing inspiration for travel-related content and trending visual ideas. | |
| Hotel Reviews and Feedback (TripAdvisor) | Analyze guest reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor to identify common themes and concerns. |
| Industry News and Magazines | Stay updated on hospitality trends through industry publications, blogs, and news websites. |
2. Conduct Thorough Research:
Delve deep into the chosen topic, ensuring a rich understanding supported by facts and statistics. Connect with industry experts for additional insights. Discover what your competitors wrote in their blogs about the topic and try to incorporate all the points.
3. Create an Outline:
Develop a comprehensive outline to guide your writing. An outline serves as a roadmap, saving time and ensuring all relevant aspects are covered.
You can simply use ChatGPT to create a compelling outline based on your competitor research. The key here is to write the relevant prompt, including the keywords you’ve found.
4. Craft a Captivating Blog Headline:
Ensure your headline accurately reflects the content’s value while capturing readers’ attention. This step can be done after completing the blog, depending on your preference.
Here are some apps that will help you create a better blog headline:
OptinMonster’s Headline Analyzer is the best tool for creating titles that are SEO-friendly and appealing to your target audience. Not only is it incredibly effective at getting you the best headlines, but it’s also totally free to use.
The Sharethrough headline tool analyzes your headline and gives it a score based on a multivariate linguistic algorithm built on the principles of Behavior Model theory and Sharethrough’s neuroscience and advertising research.
The Blog Post Headline Analyzer by CoSchedule will score your overall headline quality and rate its ability to result in shares, increased traffic, and SEO value.
5. Write an Interesting Intro:
Invest time in creating a compelling introduction. A well-crafted intro with a hook can retain readers’ interest and encourage them to explore further.
Here are some tips to craft an engaging and inviting introduction:
- Start strong: Begin with a compelling hook to grab attention instantly.
- Relevance matters: Clearly state why the reader should keep reading, emphasizing the post’s relevance.
- Establish tone: Set the tone early on, defining the mood of the blog post.
- Create urgency: Infuse urgency or excitement to encourage immediate interest.
- Personalize: Address the reader directly for a personalized touch.
- Highlight uniqueness: Showcase your hotel’s unique selling points early in the introduction.
- Preview content: Offer a glimpse of valuable insights or exciting details to come.
- Use descriptive language: Paint a vivid picture using descriptive language to engage the senses.
- Keep it concise: Keep the introduction brief and to the point, avoiding information overload.
- Encourage interaction: Invite readers to share thoughts or questions in the comments for community engagement.
6. Include a Table of Contents (ToC):
Integrate a table of contents for better organization. It helps readers navigate and allows search engines to showcase specific links as rich snippets.
7. Include Stats in the Blog (if Required):
Enhance the authority of your content by incorporating relevant statistics. Ensure accuracy by cross-checking and verifying the reliability of your sources.
8. Illustrate Points with Images or GIFs:
Make your blog visually engaging by supplementing content with multimedia elements like images, gifs, and videos.
9. Make Content Skimmable:
Recognize the need for skimmable content. Break up paragraphs, use concise sentences, and incorporate white space to cater to modern readers’ preferences.
10. Include All Relevant CTAs:
Your blog is a lead generation resource. Incorporate relevant Calls to Action (CTAs) to prompt readers for immediate action or engagement.
11. Write a Compelling Conclusion:
Conclude your blog with a compelling summary. The conclusion should inspire and leave readers energized, prompting them to make decisions or seek more information.
4. SEO Activities
Optimizing hotel blogs for search engines is crucial to enhance visibility and attract organic traffic.
Mastering Keyword Research
Finding the right keywords is like unlocking a treasure map where X marks the spot on Google’s first page. Start by digging into what future guests type when dreaming about their next getaway. Optimizing blog posts for search engines begins here—with words and phrases that echo traveler queries.
The trick is not just sprinkling these magic words throughout your post but weaving them into engaging stories naturally. On-page SEO techniques for hotel blogs include placing these gems in titles, headings, and meta descriptions too—a strategy proven to bump up those rankings without shelling out extra dough for ads.
To be precise, we’re talking about boosting your organic traffic—making sure travelers land on your site when they’re searching online. It’s been shown time and again that; do this well and watch direct bookings climb while commission fees from third-party sites take a dive. Little Hotelier reveals more insights.
Considering Local SEO
Your hotel isn’t just selling rooms—it’s offering an experience. Why not share local secrets only insiders know? Highlight nearby hidden gems or under-the-radar events that can serve as excellent ideas ripe for blogging gold—and oh-so-relevant content search engines adore.
Cleverly incorporating travel tips or details about unique local food spots can transform simple articles designed merely to inform into compelling narratives that entice readers and drive potential guests straight toward booking that room they’ve been eyeing on your website.
Quality Content Creation
Produce high-quality, valuable content that addresses the needs and interests of your target audience.
You’ve heard ‘content is king,’ but let’s add some bling to that crown by making sure what we put out there shines bright enough to catch our reader’s eye. Think beyond fluff pieces; instead aim for articles designed specifically with potential guests in mind. These should answer questions they didn’t even know they had.
And remember: if search engines love what you write thanks to smart keyword integration without overstuffing them into every nook and cranny—a greater audience will find its way right onto your welcoming pages.
Mobile Optimization
Ensure your website and blog are mobile-friendly for users on smartphones and tablets.
Use responsive design, optimize images for faster loading on mobile devices, and test your site’s mobile-friendliness with tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.
Internal Linking
Incorporate internal links within your blog content to improve navigation and distribute link equity.
In a blog about local events, link to related blog posts about nearby attractions, creating a seamless user experience.
Backlink Building
Build high-quality backlinks from reputable websites within the travel and hospitality industry.
Reach out to travel bloggers or local tourism websites, offering to contribute a guest post about unique aspects of your hotel or destination.
Regular Content Updates
Keep your content fresh and relevant by regularly updating and adding new information to your blog.
If your hotel undergoes renovations or introduces new amenities, create blog posts to showcase these updates.
5. Promote and Distribute
Your job is not over yet. Once you’re done creating and publishing your blog, you also have to promote it.
How are you going to do it? For the initial days, stick to mainstream methods.
- Share it on social media platforms
- Get it delivered to your reader’s inbox through email marketing
- Use WhatsApp marketing strategies
- Run ads on social media and Google
Hotel Blog Ideas to Get You Started
We’ve collected a few blog ideas for you to help you get started with your hotel blog. Make sure to create a content calendar based on the following ideas and publish your articles regularly.
Showcasing Unique Features Through Your Hotel Blog
Every hotel has its story and a treasure trove of unique features waiting to be discovered by eager travelers. It’s time we spotlight what makes your small hotel the talk of the town—or should we say, the jewel of traveler tales?
Take a deep dive into the distinctive features of each room in your hotel. Whether it’s a room with a panoramic city view, a private terrace, or a unique design theme, showcase what sets each accommodation apart.
Celebrating Local Cuisine
The quickest way to a traveler’s heart is through their stomach. That’s why sharing blog posts about local food delights isn’t just tasty—it’s a smart marketing strategy. Imagine capturing the essence of your region’s flavors right on your blog; you’re not just selling rooms but an entire sensory experience. By collaborating with nearby eateries or highlighting that mouthwatering room service menu featuring local produce, you turn potential guests into patrons craving for more than just comfortable bedding.
Foodie travelers are always on the lookout for authentic culinary adventures—give them a taste here.
Local Hidden Gems Series
Embark on a journey through the less-explored corners of your city. In this series, you can unveil the hidden gems that make our locale truly special. From tucked-away art galleries and cozy cafes to serene parks and quaint boutiques, you can be the guide to the undiscovered treasures that locals cherish.
Partnering with Local Attractions
Highlight partnerships with quirky or unique local attractions. This could include exclusive deals, behind-the-scenes access, or special packages for guests who want to explore these attractions during their stay.
Staff Recommendations Series
Start a series where different staff members recommend their favorite local spots, activities, or hidden gems. This adds a personal touch and insider insights to the guest experience.
Behind-the-scenes stories
Offer a glimpse behind the curtain of your hotel’s daily operations. Introduce the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to create a memorable experience for guests. Showcase unique aspects of your hospitality, from the meticulous preparation of dishes in the kitchen to the seamless coordination of housekeeping and concierge services.
Guest Spotlight
Let your guests’ stories take center stage. Share their memorable experiences through interviews, anecdotes, and photos. Showcase the diverse reasons people choose your hotel, whether it’s a special celebration, a romantic getaway, or a business trip turned leisure stay.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Keep your readers informed about the pulse of your city by highlighting upcoming seasonal events and festivals. Provide details on local celebrations, parades, or cultural happenings that guests can enjoy during their stay. Create a calendar of events to help visitors plan their trips accordingly.
Wellness and Relaxation Tips
Tap into the growing interest in wellness and self-care by offering tips and insights. Suggest nearby wellness centers, spa facilities, or scenic spots for relaxation. Share mindfulness exercises that guests can practice during their stay, aligning with your hotel’s rejuvenating atmosphere.
Pet-Friendly Travel Guide
Acknowledge and cater to pet owners by creating a comprehensive pet-friendly travel guide. Share tips on pet-friendly parks, cafes, and activities. Highlight hotel amenities that cater to furry friends, making it easier for pet owners to plan a stay with their beloved companions.
Sustainable Practices Spotlight
Emphasize your commitment to environmental responsibility by showcasing your hotel’s eco-friendly initiatives. Highlight energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction strategies, and any green certifications your hotel has obtained. Educate readers on how their stay contributes to a more sustainable world.
Local Arts and Culture Scene
Immerse your guests in the local arts and culture scene by promoting galleries, theaters, and cultural events. Feature local artists, upcoming exhibitions, and performances. Create a cultural calendar to keep guests informed about the artistic offerings in your vicinity.
Travel Tips for Families
Cater to families by providing travel tips tailored to their needs. Suggest family-friendly activities, nearby attractions suitable for children, and amenities within your hotel that cater to families. Ease the planning process for parents and make their family vacation seamless and enjoyable.
Employee Spotlights
Humanize your hotel by introducing the faces behind the scenes. Spotlight various staff members, from the concierge to the chef, sharing their stories, expertise, and contributions to the guest experience. Create a personal connection between your staff and potential guests.
Local Shopping Guide
Guide your guests through the local shopping scene with a comprehensive guide. Highlight unique boutiques, markets, and souvenir shops. Provide insights into the best finds and must-have items, allowing guests to take a piece of the local culture home with them.
Hotel History Series
Uncover the rich history of your hotel in a captivating series. Explore its origins, share stories of notable guests, and delve into any interesting anecdotes that contribute to the unique narrative of your property. Connect guests to the heritage and legacy that make your hotel a special place to stay.
Tech-Free Retreat Suggestions
Recognize the need for a digital detox by suggesting activities and areas within your hotel where guests can unwind without screens. Create a peaceful retreat within your property, encouraging guests to disconnect and immerse themselves in the tranquility of their surroundings. Share tips on mindfulness and embracing a tech-free stay.
Conclusion
Now you know the ropes of hotel blogging. It’s all about connecting with your audience, telling stories that matter to them, and showing off what makes your spot special.
Craft posts that sing. Think fresh content, quality writing, and a touch of local flavor. Remember: SEO is your best friend here.
Leverage tech wisely. Use social media to spread the word far and wide; it can be a game-changer for reach.
Finally, keep learning from those at the top of their game in hospitality blogging—inspiration is just a click away.
You’ve got this! Dive into hotel blogging headfirst; let your unique tales lure travelers in—and watch as they transform into guests knocking on your door!